Restharrow Nature Reserve
Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Trust (SBBOT)
The Elms
The Elms is a narrow strip of woodland bordering the south side of Waldershare Avenue and extending across the road on the Worth side of the Ancient Highway. It was once a larger area of woodland, thought to have been planted as a shelter belt, which was largely cleared for housing. Most of the mature trees are badly affected by Dutch Elm disease.
The Elms extension blends seamlessly with the original 'Elms', extending the woodland area to the edge of Restharrow Dunes. Additional planting of native tree species has taken place with the aim of maintaining a protective shield of trees for the Elms, whilst increasing the number of grass duneland glades.
Click here to view a map of SBBOT's reserves
Notable species :
Stock Dove, Little Owl and Kestrel have nested in artificial nest boxes and the Ivy-covered mature trees are used by Sparrowhawks. This is one of the most sheltered areas on the Estate and is attractive to migrants in spring and autumn. It is one of the best sites on the Estate for Firecrests and often holds flycatchers and thrushes, while Yellow-browed Warbler is fairly frequent in autumn. Asian rarities such as Pallas's Warbler and Olive-backed Pipit have also appeared here.
The area has many interesting fungi, including the Deceiver.
Though not exactly good news, Grey Squirrel bred for the first time in 2004.
